Steevo's RV14a Build Log: Firewall Forward Kit

I've started my adventure to build a Van's Aircraft RV14a. For several years, I've been planning to build an Experimental (homebuilt) airplane - once retired.

But first, I needed to get my Pilot's License. (Kinda key !) So... first things first: I retired March 2014 from Caterpillar - and started flying lessons in the Summer of 2014. Soloed a day after Christmas, and got my Private July 2015. Shop set up, tools acquisition, and practise kits during Fall launched me into my build starting Dec 31, 2015 !

I've chosen to build the RV14a since it's about 10% larger than Van's prior models - so it fits my 6'4" frame well. Van's is well known for great value & outstanding flying qualities. It's been a no brainer decision for me. A tour of their facilities and demo flight in Oct 2013 clinched the deal. My wife - also a pilot - exclaimed after her demo flight "retire NOW so you can build one of these". The RV14a fits my mission of a good compromise between cross country & aerobatics. Plus...I fit, too.

So far, one month into building, it's been rewarding. Very challenging, but certainly a learning experience. The builder community is terrific - as is Van's tech support. I'm finished with the Vert Stab and Rudder (Jan 2016). So... with a 5 month delivery lead time, I've ordered the Quick Build Wings and Fuselage.

I hope this blog assists other new builders, just like several others have been valuable to me. Plus it will serve to document my build step by step. Please drop me a line via the "contact me" form on lower RH margin.

Update: April 2020 relocated to Wickenburg, Az to escape Illinois winters.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Firewall Forward Kit - Propeller

Propeller Mounting and Alternator ( 3 hrs )

Torqued Propeller Mounting studs to 65 ft-lbs per Table 3-1 and Fig 3-2 ( Step 1 = 40 ft-lbs, Step 2 = 65 ft-lbs) in Hartzell Prop Owners Manual #115N. Safety wired and applied Torq Seal. Adjusted alternator belt tension per Maint Procedures Sect 5, page 5-8 in Lycoming Op Reference Manual for IO-390 series. Set by slip torque method to 145 in-lbs (midway between 132 to 156 in-lbs for New belts. Note: Used belts set to 84-108 in-lbs). Safety wired lock bolt.